The Drifter - Specs and FAQ

It probably hasn't been an issue because nobody has thought that in depth about it besides you and I. There's a reason GFC never got my money for a deposit - I didn't want to give out a 12+ month free loan and the cost difference has me waiting even longer to be able to put a deposit on a Drifter (and the fact that I'm undecided if I want the extra weight on my small, light, and underpowered 1st gen).

 

You mean like this guy?



https://www.instagram.com/p/Bq_3fBwAuB0/

 

Very true - I love both setups equally but the only thing I can not get over is it being nearly double the price (if wanting the same options). The windoors and everything add up really fast. The big thing I like is having the area to be able to stand while the bed is fully extended. As I plan to have a new puppy coming soon, that would be nice.

 

No insurance. We are not insurance people in general for a variety of reasons. Trusting Iggy and Phil to keep the Drifter afloat.

 

Price is it. It's very, very expensive for someone who is on a college "budget." I just built out the camper spec'd close to the GFC, and the total is $8,795 + $681 tax...that takes too much away from my downpayment on a future investment property.

Edit: If the vagabond was price around $6,000, I would pull the trigger right now. I absolutely love the setup but can't justify it. I know how much goes into building them and completely respect the price.

 

Puppy will appreciate being able to see you above. Our Boston Terrier has major breathing issues which was a major reason for our current trajectory with a Drifter with a fan and double-cab truck with a/c (we are such suckers). I would say that the GFC versus Drifter options aren't really the same when you look closely (though I totally get feeling that way). For example, the side pop ups on the GFC seem more at risk for water intrusion (which I think some have reported). The welded seams on the drifter and the sealed windows really make this a different animal on that count, albeit one you pay for and I agree it does add up fast. But I'm betting we will be very glad we chose the Drifter. I'll certainly report back when its actually on (!) but right now, my impression is that it's the Nordstrom of wedge campers IMHO. (I'm SUCH a girl.)

 

One thing to keep in mind when comparing prices is some options The Drifter comes with standard are options on other campers. The Drifter comes standard with front and rear windows and a small interior light. The tax is is an unavoidable issue, but with another camper you have freight which is more than CA tax as well.

I totally understand price and budget are of utmost importance, I shop with the same mentality. It's hard to earn a buck! I fully stand behind the Drifter and value you get for the money. With the versatility and ease it brings to your camping you quickly understand the investment. It's an investment, but I think it's one you will be glad you made.

 

If Vagabond is the Nordstroms, is the Habitat the Bloomingdales and GFC the Macys?

 

Very true - I think you guys priced it well for what it is and there's absolutely no arguing with that. It's a "me" issue. I'm working over-over time for the next few months and need to do some math this weekend.

 

I totally get it man! I remember my college days well, then you get out and start to figure life out then decide to have kids and it's the same thing over again. LOL

 

Budget and college are very important considerations. You are wise to consider them. Good luck.

 

I was thinking the more recent manual, 4cyl that rolled out... https://www.instagram.com/p/BrkEUTvhBLr/

I'm currently OEM gravel guard (not skid), OEM bumpers, OEM wheels, naturally aspirated 5VZ, automatic. It's slow enough as it is and I can't afford TWO $5k+ projects (supercharger AND wedge)...

 

I'm holding out for the chance of the stupid tariff wars to be over AND production improvements to drop the price down a bit. I still have to add several hundred dollars for gas to go pick it up from Colorado anyway.

 

Its not a trust issue. I have no concern about Vagabond. However, I'm risk adverse. I'm concerned over two superpowers getting pissy over trade issues and one of them i.e. China whom controls the majority of aluminum production. I need this Drifter for some work I will be doing.....if I can't get it in time I will have to make other arrangements therefore I need my deposit insured. I think you were alluding to it...in general insurance is a waste of money.

 

Yep. It's risk adversity and foresight with international relations/supply chains. Things that businesses don't want to talk too much about because it would scare off potential buyers. AT Overland obscures the cost increases on Four Wheel campers with carefully chosen wording like "Last week for 2018 prices on Four Wheel Campers and our in stock units."

 

Drifter windows... curious about those of you whom ordered Frontrunner or Windoors, what do you do when weather is hot and bugs are out? Living in a warmer climate 99% of the time sliders seem like the best option for open air with the screen while also keeping out the skeeters, yet the other options look so damn good.

 

Put some velcro or other attachment on the inside to hang/secure some no-see-um netting during those months. When you open your tailgate/rear window to get in/out you're going to let bugs in anyway.

 

Thanks!

 

Who do we contact for pricing on this? Goose Gear directly?